Indian Trails Blog

Indian Trails has been hiring drivers almost since we began operation in 1910. As a result, we have more than 100 years of experience when it comes to driving motorcoaches, from short-distance shuttles to national trips and tours. We also have one of the best records in the country for safety, our fleet is absolutely top notch, and our paid driver training program is second to none.

Preparing for any job interview is often an exercise in frustration because it is so difficult to know what you will be asked or how you should answer. An interview for a charter bus driver position is no different, but there are several ways you can prepare that will make you feel more confident and look more organized to your prospective employer. 

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a charter bus driving job? Have you ever pictured yourself skillfully (and cheerfully) maneuvering a 45-foot, 15-ton behemoth filled with high school students in the middle of the night?

In the world of commercial driving, charter bus drivers are specialists. And, as such, they require specialized training.

When you think about it, the guys and gals who take on professional charter bus driving jobs are pretty gifted. They must be excellent drivers with the stamina, disposition, and aptitude to safely operate a 20-ton passenger vehicle, day and night, rain or shine, over terrain both familiar and unfamiliar. But they also need to excel in trouble-shooting, vehicle maintenance, conflict resolution, emergency management, customer service, and even small talk. In a job that requires a blend of driving skills, mechanical skills, and people skills, it’s hard to put bus drivers into any single occupational category: Safety? Transportation? Travel and tourism? Hospitality? Diplomacy? A bus driver must be proficient in all of these areas — with a healthy dose of mechanical aptitude thrown in for good measure.

You heard it here first, drivers:  If you aspire to be a motorcoach operator, you will need a Class B CDL with endorsements. Wait. “Class B”? “CDL”? “With endorsements”?

Charter bus companies offer a variety of services to customers, and there are several advantages in hiring a charter bus company to take care of your travel plans. Motorcoach transportation is cost-effective, comfortable, versatile, and eliminates the hassles of driving. Services range anywhere from daily scheduled routes, to commuter services, to charter trips. Many companies offer more than one type of service for the convenience of travelers. Depending on your starting point, end destination, and how many people you have traveling in your group (maybe it’s just yourself), you might find some more helpful than others.

We know, we know, it’s counter-intuitive to think about “the best jobs” for a generation getting ready to retire—but if you’re a baby boomer, we think you’ll understand.

Last year, the youngest of the baby boomers (those born in 1964) celebrated their 50th birthdays. Next year, the oldest of the cohort (born in 1946) will turn 70. Traditionally, these are the “golden years.” But for a generation whose anthem has always been “Forever Young,” the concept of retirement can be anathema.  Leave it to the “me generation” to figure out a way to have the best of both worlds.

As more and more job seekers recognize professional driving as a way to see the USA, charter bus driving jobs are growing in popularity. Renowned for its beauty, have you ever visited Niagara Falls? Or lost yourself on the beautiful beaches along the east coast? What about making an expedition to the Windy City, or a trip back in time to Mackinac Island? Even a day venture to northern Michigan offers a wealth of sights and small wonders.